Crown Fountain, Chicago

To the south of Tribune Plaza, you'll encounter Crown Fountain, a striking installation designed by the renowned Spanish architect Jaume Plensa. Comprising two impressive 50-foot (15.2-meter) glass towers that face each other across a granite plaza, this fountain is a unique attraction. Beneath the surface of the glass blocks, LED screens display a rotating gallery of close-up images featuring 1,000 Chicago residents. These individuals, drawn from various communities within the city, were asked to simulate blowing on a feather while being filmed. Now, when their digital representations purse their lips, water playfully spouts from their mouths, bringing joy to playful children. In the summertime, it transforms into a popular splash park, but even during Chicago's winters, the fountain retains its lifelike charm.

The atmosphere surrounding Crown Fountain is infectious, drawing people from diverse backgrounds and fostering an extraordinary sense of community. It's the kind of place that transcends social boundaries and unites people, if only for a brief moment. The sight of strangers-turned-friends sharing laughter as they dodge the dancing water spouts is bound to bring a smile to your face.

Why You Should Visit:
Whether you want to bask in the sun, enjoy a picnic, or simply take a leisurely stroll, everything is readily available here. The area is consistently well-maintained, with crystal-clear water and meticulously kept grounds. It's evident that the city takes great pride in preserving the beauty of this location, and this commitment shines through in every aspect.